John F. Petras, Jr.

Celebrating the Life of John F. Petras, Jr.

October 2, 1947 – September 25, 2025

John F. Petras, Jr. lived a life of adventure, service, and unwavering faith. On September 25, 2025, he passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Plainfield, NJ, and raised in Dunellen, John was part of the first graduating class of St. Joseph’s High School in Metuchen (1965). From an early age, he embraced life with energy and curiosity, a spirit that would carry him across the world.

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy, stationed in Japan and San Diego. His years of service shaped his character and deepened his sense of duty and honor. After his Navy career, he continued to serve as a Merchant Marine and later as a Master Fitness Trainer with the Army National Guard.

Education was important to John. He earned his degree from the University of South Florida and later an MBA from the University of Southern California. But his greatest lessons came from life itself—through friendships, faith, and the countless places he called home, from Manasquan to San Diego, Wake Forest, and even San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

A lifelong music lover, John attended the legendary Woodstock Festival in 1969. His love for music grew alongside his love for travel, with favorites ranging from Bob Dylan and Carlos Santana to Bob Marley and Mariachi. His adventurous spirit led him to colorful corners of the world, and in retirement, he spent nearly a decade living part-time in San Miguel de Allende. Before that, he enjoyed life at the Jersey Shore, where he was an avid fisherman on the boats of Point Pleasant. Wherever he lived, John stayed active—running marathons, walking daily, and proudly counting over 10,000 steps a day.

Faith was the foundation of John’s journey. One of his most treasured experiences was being baptized in the River Jordan. His love for God guided him through every season of life, and in recent years, he found strength and fellowship in his Band of Brothers Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group. John never met a stranger—his warmth and openness turned acquaintances into lifelong friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elizabeth Petras. He is survived by his sisters Elizabeth Petras, Mary Ann Petras & Michael Jacula, and Christine Petras & George David Medina; nieces and nephews Dr. Matthew & Kacey Stillwagon, Andrew & Megan Stillwagon, John Jacula, Clare Jacula, Christopher Medina, Ashley & Dayton Rhymes; great-nieces and nephews Micah, Chance Matthew, Xavier, Carmen, Layla; his Aunt Helen Chasse of Middlesex, NJ; and many cousins and dear friends across the world.

John showed us an unwavering dedication to God, family, and the country he served. All with commitment, honor, and integrity. He left a deep love for life to remain as his family inheritance, in the world and for peace. His legacy of love, service, and commitment will forever be remembered by those who loved him in life and will love him forever. What a comfort it is to know that John now rests in the presence of the Savior he loved so deeply.

A Celebration of Life with full military honors will be held at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, Wrightstown, NJ, on October 20, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amigos for Christ or the Wounded Warrior Project in his name.